Here we take a look at the BEST lightweight turnout rugs for horses and ponies this spring. With winter behind us, we may now be turning our attention to lightweight rugs in a bid to keep our horse warm and dry, as April showers commence.
All rugs featured here are a 0g fill. We’ve even included a few must-have accessories too.
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Prints
The wild print trend continues to bloom this spring with the usual selection of themed turnout rugs hitting the market. From the much-loved Thelwell characters to crown prints and lightning bolts – we’ve really seen it all in the last few years, each offering owners and loaners even more of an opportunity to gush over their beloved equines!
Gallop Trojan Monarch Lightweight Turnout
As the print trend continues, this lightweight turnout rug from Gallop will tick many boxes if you’re looking for a reasonably priced, reliable rug this spring.
Top features include:
- 0g fill turnout rug
- 600D ripstop outer
- Fun print with nylon lining on inner
- Fleece wither protection
- Tail guard
- Elasticated detachable leg straps
- High set shoulder gussets
- Double buckle front fastenings
- Low set surcingles
Available in sizes 5’9 – 7’0
Market Leaders
When it comes to the best lightweight turnout rugs, prints aside, it’s often the brands that have proved their worth over decades of rug design and manufacturing that top the go-to list for many horse owners. Both Shires and Weatherbeeta are two brands that have done just that, as they continue to push boundaries without compromising on quality and over recent years, have had price points that won’t break the bank too.
Shires Tempest Original Lightweight Combo Neck
Offering a little extra cover, the Shires Tempest lightweight rug comes with a fitted neck making it perfect for an older horse, a poor doer, or one that is clipped.
Top features include:
- 0g fill turnout rug
- 600D ripstop outer with ShireTex Advanced Fabric Technology
- Contoured neck cover
- Front double buckle fastening
- Low set surcingles
- Tail flap
- Fillet string
- Warmth Boosting thermal system liner available
Available in sizes 4′ – 7’3
Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Lightweight
The Weatherbeeta ComFiTec comes with a detachable neck cover giving horse owners the option for more or less coverage depending on the weather conditions. Reflective strips to the front offer added visibility, and the liner system means this rug can be used any time of year.
Top features include:
- 0g fill turnout rug
- 1200D tripple weave ripstop outer
- Waterproof and breathable
- D-rings for detachable neck cover (sold separately)
- Reflective front strips
- 100% boa fleece wither protection
- Memory foam wither relief pad
- Extra large tail guard
- Detachable and adjustable leg straps
- High set shoulder gussets
- Double clip and buckle front fastenings
- Low set elasticated surcingles
- Compatible with new Weatherbeeta liner system
- Weatherbeeta’s 3 year warranty on hardware, waterproofness and breathability on turnouts
Available in sizes 4′ – 7’3
Newbies
Although not brand new, another name gathering momentum over the past few years is Hy Equestrian. Proving a real contender in the equestrian market for horse and rider wear, the different ranges available, the quality goods, and the easily digestible pricing strategy have certainly helped in the rise through the ranks.
Hy Equestrian StormX Original Turnout Rug
A no-frills turnout rug with benefits of wither protection and a high fit around the neck.
Top features include:
- 0g fill turnout rug
- 600D outer
- Waterproof and breathable
- Double adjustable buckle fastenings
- Fleece lined wither
- Low set surcingles
- Adjustable leg straps
- Tail flap
Available in sizes 4’6 – 7’0
Mark Todd Lightweight Turnout Rug
Top features include:
- 0g fill turnout rug
- 600D ripstop outer
- Breathable
- Nylon liner
- Double front buckles with quick release
- Reinforced nylon anti-rub shoulders
- Low set surcingles
- High set shoulder gussets
- Gusseted tail flap – ideal for thick tails
- Adjustable and removable leg straps
- Fleece wither protection
- D rings for neck cover
Available in sizes 5’6 – 7′
Rug Accessories
Shires Anti-Rub Stretch Vest
A multi-way stretch bib that helps prevent rubs and sores, suitable for field or stable. Machine-washable.
Shires Chest Expander
A lifesaver for broader-chested horses! Waterproof, ripstop material and padded for comfort.
Bucas Leg Straps
From Bucas, but for universal use on any rugs with D rings for leg straps to clip onto. Adjustable.
